Throughout history, the Peruvian National Team has given us moments of glory, such as being two-time champions of the Copa America in 1939 and 1975. However, that wouldn't be all, as they have also qualified for the World Cup 5 times (1930, 1970, 1978, 1982, and 2018) and have a trophy in their showcase that only 2 CONMEBOL teams managed to win.
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The Kirin Cup is a tournament held in Japan since 1992. This championship took place annually in Japanese lands until 2011 when it ceased to have the same frequency. After that, it was only held twice: in 2016 and 2022.
What the new generations do not remember is that our Peruvian National Team was a protagonist in three editions of the tournament. Specifically, in 1999, 2005, and 2011, the national team was crowned champion of this mini-championship and lifted the cup. Usually, except for the last two editions, three teams participated.
In 1999, Peru tied for first place with Belgium and left the host, Japan, relegated. In 2005, the 'Blanquirroja' became champions along with the United Arab Emirates under the leadership of Freddy Ternero, who was the coach of the national team at that time.
Finally, in 2011, it was the last time that Peru participated in the tournament held in the Asian country. In that year, for the first time in history, three teams were crowned champions after equalizing in points and goals. Czech Republic, Japan, and Peru raised the trophy. In that year, Sergio Markarián was the coach of the national team.
When was the last edition of the Kirin Cup?
The last edition was held in 2022 and the participating teams were Chile, Japan, Ghana, and Tunisia. The champion and runner-up were Tunisia and Japan respectively.
Which is the other CONMEBOL team that won the cup?
In 1992, Argentina was invited to the tournament and became the champion, leaving Wales in second place and Japan in third place.
The representative of South America at the 2022 Kirin Cup
For the 2022 edition, the Chilean National Team was invited to participate in the Kirin Cup. However, 'Toto' Berizzo's team finished in last place.